Windy Weather Topples Power Lines, Trees Following Record Heat

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) - After a day of record heat, strong winds were the cause of some problems in the area.

"Dry lightening is a concern because there is no moisture with that flow," said Chief Jake Sjolumb.

Sparks in the sky started several fires on the ground near Tahoe National Forest, and the strong winds and recent record hot temperatures only made them spread faster.

"It could smolder for days, even weeks, and what the big concern is when the weather heats back up again is when those fires pop up," said Sjolumb.

The same winds that fueled the wildfires also kept other local crews busy, ripping off a large pine tree branch on Newcastle Road that blocked the roadway for hours.

"The heat yesterday, mixed with the wind today, could have possibly caused the line to break," said neighbor Toni Howe.

Strong winds also brought down a power line and lit a nearby fence and tree on fire, almost electrocuting a man in West Sacramento.

"He did get zapped with a pretty good jolt of electricity and it knocked him down to the ground. He's got some singed toes, but he's fine," said Howe.

The windy and hot weather is certainly keeping crews busy. Cal Fire says they beefed up staffing to be ready for the increased threat.

"Currently, we have an activity level of a six, which is the highest that we go," said Sjolumb.

But even with the high winds, thankfully Sunday's cooler temperatures kept any flames under control.

"The humidities are up today, so that's a positive in terms of keeping fires small," said Sjolumb.

It's already been a long and hot fire season, so the cooler temperatures and breeze at least make it easier for the crews to fight the fires.